AFX255-DPCSO1 - Direct-to-Phase-II Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need

The proposed solution seeks to evaluate Hermeus’ hypersonic multi-mission aircraft concept, Darkhorse, for fulfillment of Air Force Global Strike Command’s (AFGSC) need for a responsive strike aircraft (RSA). Darkhorse is an autonomous reuseable hypersonic aircraft with the capability to execute multiple missions, including ISR and long-range strike. Through Hermeus’ Quarterhorse aircraft program, Hermeus is currently developing the hypersonic capable technology required to make Darkhorse a reality. Using the direct-to-phase II effort, Hermeus intends to identify the feasibility and mission Concept of Operations (CONOP) for the Darkhorse aircraft to be used as a multi-mission RSA platform. Based on the CONOPs identified, Hermeus will research applicable effector payloads for use during mission operation and command and control architecture for integration into the Joint Force. The effort will conclude with Hermeus evaluating the effectiveness of the Darkhorse capability and identified mission sets via Operational Analysis (OA) to ensure the validity of the concept to meet the requisite requirements.